Havering Council has refused planning permission for Meteor Meze & Grill Restaurant to retain its raised decking area at the front and side of its premises in Main Road.
The proposals are retrospective – meaning the works have already been carried out – and an enforcement case against the restaurant is “under investigation”, according to the planning officer’s report.
However, the report also notes that no objections from residents were received, despite 40 neighbouring properties being notified of the application.
One objection was lodged by the council’s heritage officer, who argued that while temporary seating areas outside eateries are “common”, the Meteor’s decking is a “permanent structure” which encroaches onto the pavement.
The side seating was approved as part of an initial change of use application for the restaurant in February 2024, however the current structure includes a raised decking area at the front, vertical posts and a canopy, the report says.
The heritage officer said in the report: “The inclusion of structural elements such as vertical posts and a canopy introduces visual clutter that constitutes shopfront spillage onto the pavement.
“This utilitarian intervention detracts from the pedestrian experience and compromises views of adjacent historic buildings.”
Overall, the report concluded that the seating area should be refused due to it being “harmful to the character and appearance of the building” and having an “invasive” impact on the open nature of the parade.
Meteor Meze & Grill Restaurant has been contacted for comment.
